Charles Dickens was an extremely popular writer during his life, and to this day, quotes from Charles Dickens are often cited because he had such a way with words. He was a talented and successful writer who earned the equivalent of 1.5 million dollars for his readings alone! People flocked to hear him read, and they enjoyed reading novels such as Great Expectations, Oliver Twist, and David Copperfield on their own as well. He was such a master with words that his novels have remained popular, and there are still many wonderful quotes from Charles Dickens that inspire.
1. Your Help is Always Needed
One of the many quotes from Charles Dickens that is often cited is, “No one is useless in this world who lightens the burdens of another.” Offering your assistance to someone in need will provide you with purpose in life. You will feel fulfilled by helping someone else, even if all you are doing is holding the door open for someone. However, you can go further and become a volunteer for one of the many wonderful organizations that are out there.
2. Happiness
Happiness and joy are something people seek their entire lives. Everyone wants to find something that will make them happy. However, Charles Dickens asserted, “Happiness is a gift and the trick is not to expect it, but to delight in it when it comes.” If you are not constantly seeking happiness, it will find you when you least expect it.
3. Kindness
The world would be a much kinder place if everyone followed Charles Dickens’ advice to “Have a heart that never hardens, and a temper that never tires, and a touch that never hurts.” Compassion, patience, and gentleness are qualities that are important for everyone to have. They cultivate kindness and peace, and they help bring people closer together.
4. Embrace Your Emotions
Charles Dickens declared, “We need never be ashamed of our tears.” All too often, people put on a brave face when all they really want to do is cry. I know I do this much more than I should, and I should follow Dickens’ advice to not be ashamed of my tears. Certainly, when I cry and seek comfort, I feel better. If you are a person who puts on a brave face, try to let your emotions out. You will find you feel lighter when you seek comfort.
5. A Little Goes a Long Way
It is amazing how small changes can make a big difference. Charles Dickens recognized this, and he stated, “A very little key will open a very heavy door.” More often than not, it doesn’t take much to make improvements in your life. If you are trying to reach a goal or make a change, start with small steps. They will take you far.
6. Take Action
Charles Dickens emphasized that “The most important thing in life is to stop saying ‘I wish’ and start saying ‘I will.'” Wishing and hoping for something to happen won’t make it happen. However, taking action to make your dreams come true will give you a much better chance at reaching them. You can only achieve your goals when you are actively taking steps to accomplish them.
7. Life is Full of Contrasts
“It was the best of times, it was the worst of times…” is one of the most famous quotes from Charles Dickens, and for good reason. Life is full of contrasts. You will experience ups and downs throughout your life, sometimes simultaneously. Embracing life’s difficulties as well as its joys will allow you to experience life to the fullest.
Each of these quotes from Charles Dickens eloquently expresses important life lessons. They all speak to his talent as a writer, and they all have something to offer everyone. Which one of these quotes resonates with you the most?
Sources: biography.com, brainyquote.com
Frequently Asked Questions
- Who was Charles Dickens?
- Ah, Charles Dickens! He was a legendary 19th-century English writer. You've probably heard of his famous works like 'A Christmas Carol' and 'Oliver Twist'. He had this magical way with words that still inspires readers today.
- Did Charles Dickens really say 'A little goes a long way'?
- You know, while Charles Dickens might not have said those exact words, he had a knack for sharing wisdom about life's little things. His quotes reflect the idea that small acts can have big impacts, which is probably why people associate him with this saying!
- What does 'A very little key will open a very heavy door' mean?
- Oh, that one's a gem! It means that sometimes, small things or simple actions can lead to big changes or open up new opportunities. It's like reminding us not to underestimate the power of little steps.
- Why do people love Charles Dickens' quotes on happiness?
- Charles Dickens had this incredible way of expressing deep emotions and thoughts on life. His quotes on happiness often highlight how joy can be found in the simplest of things, resonating with people who seek comfort and inspiration.
- Can little things really go a long way?
- Absolutely! It's fascinating how small gestures or efforts can snowball into significant effects. Whether it's a kind word, a small favor, or a tiny spark of creativity, every little bit counts more than we often realize.